Game Informer’s Fall Buying Guide 2022

LUNII

Interactive story for kids

The “My Fabulous Storyteller” is a bit like a kid-targeted interactive narrative video game console – but without a screen. The enterprising young storyteller can select from a variety of options for different stories, choosing things like the main character, where they’ll visit, and who they’ll meet, prompted both by audio cues and a backlit picture of the selection. The Lunii then reads the custom story out loud – all of which are delightfully narrated and acted out. Included 3.5 mm headphone jack, adjustable volume, and easy controls are welcome, but it’s the opportunity for the youngest family members to create their own stories that is the real success. There are 48 stories included, and many more available to download. $79.90

Purchase

900 Legacy Noise-Cancelling Headphones

For quiet studying

You’ve got plenty of options for noise-canceling headphones to drown out the party next door, but few offer this level of premium-level performance and style at this price point. You either love or hate the carbon fiber design, but there’s no denying it’s a sleek look setting itself apart from competitors. It is supremely comfortable, with sound quality comparable to other brands. The earphones also have excellent battery life and easy-to-use earcup controls. If you’re willing to purchase for quality over a more recognizable brand name, you won’t be disappointed. $249

Purchase

Turntable AT-LP60XBT

Get started with your vinyl collection

Vinyl is a popular choice for serious audiophiles. With a growing selection of soundtracks, the gaming community has begun to embrace this trend. Audio Technica has a solid entry level turntable, the LP60XBT. This model features a fully-automatic stereo belt-drive and a removable dust cover. The LP60XBT can also play 45 and 33 RPM records. This model also supports both a traditional wired connection or outputting to speakers or headphones over Bluetooth – a convenience for users who might need to take a roommate’s happiness into account. $219

Purchase

Exo Scuf Cushion

Get rid of your back pain

Inevitable slouching is a hazard of gaming; it’s easy to lean forward or back into the controller, and end up with a sore back. This inflatable cushion aims to rectify that problem with a natural resting place for your arms and hands, and a wraparound fit that holds in place whether you’re on a sofa or chair. You can adjust the level of air-fill to achieve your desired support. The bag also includes a storage pouch for easy packing and transport. $39.99

Buy

Pro Compact Controller For Xbox/PC

Pack-along is easy

Many third-party controllers go wild with optional bonus inputs, but few cater to the need for a smaller form factor – whether because of space needs or simply smaller hands. Nacon’s affordable wired entry does just that, offering 15% smaller grips and overall size but with the features you’d expect on higher-end controllers, including programmable buttons, trigger sensitivity tweaks, and textured grips – not to mention an included option for Dolby Atmos for Headphones. It’s a great fit for certain hand types, or maybe just that small carry-on bag you’re taking to school this year. $49.90

Gamestop – Purchase

Mega Halo Infinite UNSC Scorpion Clash

Build a Study Break

The set is just below 1,000 pieces and brings to life the UNSC Tank as seen in Halo 2. You can create the ultimate shelf battle diorama with five included figures. One of the highlights is the ability to build rolling tank treads. The set also includes an alternate split build for a spacecraft and smaller tank – albeit less rooted in established vehicles from the fiction. Is this the Scorpion that will tip the scales in favor of the Banished? The only way to find out is to try. $89.99

Purchase

X-Men: Bishop Premier Collection Statue

Comic collectibles of the highest quality

Whether you remember him in comics or animated cartoons, there were few characters that had as much coolness as the time-travelling mutant Bishop. He returned from the future to warn the X-Men about the dark times ahead. At approximately 12 inches tall, this iconic portrayal of the character has dynamic posing, and an extremely detailed sculpt that captures him as he marches into battle. $250

Purchase

Beam (Gen 2) Soundbar And Sub (Gen 3)

Great audio, limited space

As tech-lovers, at some time we all want great sound quality for our gaming and movies. Sonos’ space-conscious soundbar has output that belies its footprint, offering impressive, room-filling sound, Dolby Atmos support, and accurate performance for everything from dialogue to tunes. While a strong performer in its own right, upgrading with a connected Sonos Sub fills in the low-end with rumbling depth – just one of many additions and expansions available if you choose to go all-in on a Sonos multi-room setup down the road. $449 (Beam), $749 (Sub)

Purchase

Balagos, Ancient Red Dragon Figure

Fantastique fare

It almost feels reductive to call this towering rendition of one of the Forgotten Realms’ fiercest monsters a miniature, but here we are. WizKids knocks it out of the park with this take on D&D’s most iconic beastie, the red dragon. The Flying Flame terrorized the countryside of Faerûn, but he can instead reign over your collecting shelf. It is a stunning example of top-quality paintwork, measuring 18 inches in height and almost 2 feet wide. It is a shame that the dungeon master didn’t actually bring Balagos to the table. $346

Purchase

Jurassic World – The Legacy of Isla nublar

Gaming throughout the semester

Return to the root of Jurassic WorldWith this cooperative classic game, players will work together in twelve different sessions to make a successful theme park for dinosaurs. Bright and vibrant graphics make the game stand out and remind of the early days of the movie franchise. It’s fun to bring new, sometimes dangerous dinosaurs onto the island. You also have to solve the inevitable problems. Every campaign brings new rules and events. You will never know what happens next. Don’t stop to think if you should play this engaging adventure – it will all probably turn out fine. $120

Purchase

L885 Electric Cargo Bike

Cheap commuting

The L885 is a great option for students who are tech-savvy and want to avoid the high fuel costs. It offers ease of operation, smooth riding, and is a good alternative to driving a car on trips less than 50 miles. A large payload can be accommodated in the included rear rack, which can store groceries and backpacks. Stability is maintained by the lower center of gravity due to the small rear wheel as well as pedal-assist motor control or throttle. The included options include a dual-leg kickstand and a functioning brake light. A seven-gear shifting mechanism is also available. Optional baskets and carriers can be added at an extra charge to add water bottle holders, cell phone mounts, or kid carriers. $1,999

Purchase

D&D: Journeys Through The Radiant Citadel

Playing a role in a change of pace

Wizards of the Coast has one of the most interesting new roles-playing games in quite some time. This book focuses on the Radiant Citadel which is a mysterious city that floats through the ether and has connections to faraway lands. The book also includes 13 separate adventures. They were written by people from color in order to reflect on their culture and live experiences, but they are applied to role-playing. The result is a rich tapestry of stories tapping into inspirations we don’t always see in the D&D world, and that has the potential to lead to some fantastic evenings of gaming. $49.95

Buy

Fighting Stick Alpha

Get ready for tournament

Responsive, durable, and aesthetically slick, Hori’s latest entry for fighting game enthusiasts is a surefire winner. Its Hayabusa joystick allows for aggressive play, and it remains in great condition. Both are designed for professional level play, so even the slightest twitch or press registers – whether you meant it or not. Up to four custom profiles, a 3.5 mm audio jack, and replaceable top-panel art; this is a stick for contenders, and you’ll pay for the privilege of play. $199

Gamestop – Purchase

Star Wars: The Mandalorian Life Sized Grogu

It’s relatively rare that you can snag a life-sized representation of a favorite fictional character. But when that character is around 16 inches in height, it’s an attainable dream. The resin version of The Child features an optional Mythosaur skull necklace, and an engraved nameplate. These expressive eyes make the most of their charm. He’s watching you, so don’t threaten his dad. $250

Purchase